LG recently unveiled its 2024 OLED TV lineup, revealing the anticipated LG C4, their mid-range OLED option, and the flagship OLED model, the LG G4.
In the previous year, the LG C3 and LG G3, predecessors to the C4 and G4, earned high praise.
Having had the chance to experience both the C4 and G4 at CES 2024, it’s evident that LG has made improvements from their 2023 models. Notably, the C4 showcases the promised enhanced brightness.
The question arises: How do the LG C4 and LG G4 compare? Does the mid-range C4 present a more significant upgrade from its predecessor than the G4 does from its forerunner? We delve into the details to find out.
LG C4 vs G4: Pricing, Sizes, and Release Date
As of now, there’s no official release date or pricing for the LG C4 and LG G4. We can only speculate based on last year’s models.
Historically, both the LG C3 and LG G3 hit the market in March 2023 after unveiling at CES in January. This pattern is likely to repeat for the C4 and G4.
In terms of size, the LG C4 mirrors the 42-83-inch range of the C3, while the LG G4 maintains the 55-83-inch sizes from the G3. Additionally, the G4 offers a 97-inch size, last seen in the 2022 LG G2.
Regarding pricing, the absence of official confirmation leads us to estimate based on last year’s models. The LG G3 and LG C3 had the following prices at release:
| Model | Price (USD) | Price (GBP) | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| OLED55G3 | $2,299.99 | £2,399.98 | AU$4,195 |
| OLED65G3 | $3,299.99 | £3,299.98 | AU$5,295 |
| OLED77G3 | $4,499.99 | £4,999.98 | AU$8,395 |
| OLED83G3 | $6,499.99 | £7,499.98 | AU$10,995 |
LG G2’s 97-inch version was priced at $25,000, £25,000, and AU$40,000.
LG C3 prices at release were as follows:
| Model | Price (USD) | Price (GBP) | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| OLED83C3 | $5,299 | £6,499 | AU$7,900 |
| OLED77C3 | $3,599 | £3,999 | AU$5,370 |
| OLED65C3 | $2,600 | £2,899 | AU$3,900 |
| OLED55C3 | $1,899 | £2,099 | AU$2,830 |
| OLED48C3 | $1,499 | £1,599 | AU$2,240 |
| OLED42C3 | $1,399 | £1,499 | AU$2,100 |
While we can’t confirm exact pricing for the LG C4 and G4, we anticipate it to align closely with these figures. Once official pricing and release dates emerge, we’ll promptly update this information.
LG C4 vs G4: Features
Both the C4 and G4 boast upgraded processors. The C4 employs the new Alpha 9 Gen7 chip, enhancing brightness and introducing more AI picture mode features. Meanwhile, the G4 incorporates the Alpha 11 chip, offering improved brightness and additional AI picture mode features. An exciting development is the chips’ ability to transmit wireless, lossless Dolby Atmos when paired with a compatible LG soundbar, marking a noteworthy advancement in home theater technology.
Panel-wise, both models feature OLED Evo panels, with the G4 incorporating micro lens array (MLA) tech to enhance brightness over standard OLED models. The G4’s 83-inch model will now include MLA tech, addressing the omission in last year’s G3 83-inch model.
While peak brightness figures are yet to be disclosed, last year’s C3 and G3 achieved 830 and 1,449 nits, respectively. LG promises improved brightness for both the C4 and G4, with our in-person observation highlighting the C4’s more impressive boost compared to the G4.
The C4 exhibits a vibrant HDR performance, noticeably enhancing white areas on the screen. Estimated to reach 900-1,000 nits peak brightness, it marks a substantial improvement over the C3. Gaming features receive an upgrade with both models supporting a 144Hz refresh rate, catering to PC gamers. AMD Freesync and Nvidia G-Sync certification, along with LG’s Game Optimizer menu, further enhance the gaming experience.
Built-in sound, an area of improvement from the LG C3, awaits testing for the C4 and G4. Both models feature AI sound pro settings to upmix to 11.1.2 channels. Anticipating similar sound dynamics to the G3, we expect improved audio.
Although comprehensive testing is pending, initial impressions suggest the G4 retains its premium status, while the C4 emerges as a notable improvement over its predecessor.
LG C4 vs LG G4: Design
Both the C4 and G4 maintain a sleek design, reminiscent of their well-received predecessors, the C3 and G3. However, the G3 faced criticism for lacking a stand in the box, forcing users to purchase a pricey optional stand if not wall-mounting.
Acknowledging feedback, LG ensures the G4 ships with a stand included. While the stand’s availability in regions other than the US remains unconfirmed, it will be included with 55- and 65-inch models. Larger sizes, like the 77-, 83-, and 97-inch, will receive the zero-gap wall-mount.
Verdict
Based on specs and CES observations, the G4 seems superior with MLA tech, higher brightness, and advanced AI features. Surprisingly, the C4 emerges as the more exciting upgrade, boasting increased peak brightness, superior image quality over the C3, and a diverse range of sizes.
While a conclusive judgment awaits hands-on testing in the coming months, the early impression suggests the C4 might offer better value among the two models.